x Bookish

For this edition of the Culture Edit, we’re putting on our reading glasses and getting a little Bookish

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR – ON BEING BOOKISH

Let’s be honest here (this is a safe space). Being bookish isn’t always considered the coolest thing in the world. Being super well read –on subjects as diverse as Chaucer’s depiction of chivalry or Proust’s fascination with the elusive madeleine of his youth – doesn’t always play so well as witty party banter. But being bookish isn’t bad. In fact, we’re here to argue that it should be celebrated.

First things first. Being a nerdy lady with a passion for literature means you’re in excellent company. Just think of bookish gals from days long past. Like Virginia Woolf (will someone give her a damn room of her own already?). Or Jane Austen (lesser known for her brilliant fireside book readings). Perhaps an imaginary bookish lady is more your thing? Totally fine. In fact, there’s a whole gaggle to chose from: Lisa Simpson. Daria. Matilda. Scout Finch. The list goes on and on. If you need any more proof (we can’t imagine why), contemporary Ladies of Letters are also championing the bookish vibe (you’ll find a particularly sweet collection of them over at Girls at Library).

All this is to say, ladies, go ahead. Put on your kookiest reading glasses. You look fabulous. Anyone who says otherwise isn’t worth the ink on your quill. We figure that the best way to change the tides in favour of bookishness is to lead by example. That’s why for this Bookish edition of The Culture Edit, we’re bringing you the very best of literary style and substance.

You might just feel inspired to write your own travel diary along the way! Writer Kelly L McKenzie is here to help, sharing her own travel adventures in Chiang Mai, Thailand. She hit the road with her own mother, and then set to work years later writing about their escapades for a brand new book. But as everyone knows, traveling with family can sometimes be a tough pill to swallow. That’s why we have an article about our favourite new book, The Novel Cure. In it you’ll find literary suggestions to remedy just about any ailment. Just read it. You’ll thank us.